Ask Absence and Time Makes The Heart Grow Fonder

[Trodai Narat-iv-Adas]

It had been at least a few months and weeks since Trodai had last seen Darth Arcanos. Azar, his lover. Or so he still hoped so, that the fond feelings still remained. Even after he had heard of the death of his husband which was a surprise itself. Trodai was slightly more cautious as a result upon this meeting. Not knowing who he would meet Darth Arcanos or Azar. Trodai had chosen to remain a bit more scarce after the disastrous gala incident with Vossari and after the death of Karys, to give Azar time to grieve and think.

Instead he had focused upon carrying out assignments for the Sith, increasing his own powerbase and keeping his promises to his king. Managing to be both restored as Regent of Ur and physically in the process of his absence. A surprise to himself at finding such a way. He was certain his king would find that particular tale of interest. No longer was this the young, foolish man he had once been. Instead stood a slightly more scarred, seasoned warrior.

Wiser for the lessons he had learnt.

He had debated for a long time whether to actually ask Azar to join him for a little getaway to Verona. Unsure as to how he felt after everything that had happened. But in the end he asked, and was surprised and happy he decided to come. He missed him very much, more than he would dare ever admit. And his heart ached in anticipation, thumping like a drum. Like it was the first time all over again. In a sense he supposed it was. For he had grown since they last met in many ways. He supposed the same was of Darth Arcanos. He waited patiently, as a entourage of baggage handlers waited for his king having been informed to expect extra luggage. He remembered how Azar loved to travel with multiple bags, it brought a smile recalling this small quirk. They were told to expect his arrival soon at the luxury hotel, nestled close to the forest and the mountains so they could begin the trek to the lowlands and the plant and nature reserve the following day. It would allow Darth Arcanos and Trodai a day to look around the area and explore it they so chose or rest.

He thought upon their last words. Time makes the heart grow fonder, he found now the truth to those words. Time and abswnce had made him grow for Azar. For his king. His Sith'ari. And his love had never felt stronger. Just as he had never felt more strong in other ways. And so he waited, dressed to impress in a gold and black ensemble and wearing a full face ball mask hoping he hadn't yet found out about his restoration. Hoping to surprise Azar himself with it.

Although he knew he couldn't hide it entirely, his returned muscles and physique were far more obvious.

A small chuckle escaped at the thought of it. He wondered what he might think, both upon his attempt at surprise and at his restored appearance, even if there were some scars remaining. But luckily now they had faded for most part from what they were. As he saw Azar, a wide smile gripped him underneath the mask.

He could feel him even before he saw him. And it was intoxicating and dangerous all in one. And yet he found he could love no other and refused too, even if some objected. This was what he had chosen that first moment they danced and locked eyes. A man he had bled and sacrificed for and would continue to, and would walk into Chaos for.

He gave a bow as he spoke.

"Welcome my king, to Verona. I am glad you accepted and am sorry it had to be so long until we saw each other again. I see now the words you spoke are true, as you once told me. It is true time and absence does make the heart grow fonder. I have missed you greatly."

With that he stepped back a little as he spoke more, so Azar had a good view "Sorry about the mask, but I have something of a surprise to show you. It might be a little shock at first." and with that he slowly removed the mask, knowing Azar might be expecting something even more gross only to be pleasantly more surprised. Or so was his hope. Taking the mask off he revealed his restored form.

"What do you think my king? Do I meet your approval. I can't wait to show you the sights of the reserve." he said smiling as he gave the mask to a baggage handler to put away.

@Sreeya

 

[Darth Arcanos]

The final push into Ziost was going to happen soon and the stress of another campaign was wearing on Azar. He had been away from his partners and he was still coping with the loss of his husband. There were nights where he woke up with a cold sweat, expecting Karys’ arm to be wrapped around him - only to remember he would never feel that sensation again. Killing Karys had been objectively the right move, but it wasn’t so easy to move on from a man Azar loved deeply enough to eternally mark as his husband.

Trodai had been absent from his life since the debacle at the political gathering. Azar knew he and Vossari had an altercation and it left the Pureblood reeling. However, enough time had passed where Azar wouldn’t turn down an invitation from Trodai. He was shallow and wasn’t fond of Trodai’s new appearance, but he couldn’t deny a part of him missed just having the man around. He may have talked more than necessary, but Trodai was at his side even since he was a Champion.

His luggage rolled out before he did, a line of his things being transported to waiting attendants. Azar was the last to emerge, strutting down the ramp of the ship immaculately dressed like the King he was. He wore heeled boots with his ensemble, the black a striking contrast to his crimson skin. Azar appraised Trodai’s attire, always admiring the man’s fashion regardless of how carved up he got. He also didn’t miss the muscle tone, always impressed by the Massassi builds.

“I would have found you again eventually,” Azar said with a faint smile. Despite his partners having a low opinion of Trodai, Azar had an understanding with the Massassi only the two of them shared. Just as he hadn’t let Karys’ opinions of Trael sway him, so too he wouldn’t allow it for Trodai.

When Trodai removed the mask, Azar’s eyes widened in surprise, “Trodai..” He whispered after a moment of silence. His hands slowly rose to gingerly cup the Massassi’s face, “You are you again..” He said, unable to keep the faint emotions from his tone, “How?”

Azar knew whatever the explanation was, Trodai would talk for a long time. So he simply sighed and embraced the other man, burying his face against Trodai’s chest. It was clear Azar was fatigued both from the physical and mental strain of planning a campaign, serving as a Sith Lord and holding the title of King. At that moment, he simply wanted to be held.

@Akheron

 

[Trodai Narat-iv-Adas]

As Azar luggage rolled out he couldn't help but try and suppress a chuckle a little, at how the attendants were suffering so. He knew Azar was still coping with the loss of his husband but that was partly the point of all this. He knew in part he was probably about the only other Pureblood with whom Azar could now relate. The two had always had a unique understanding that the others could never quite grasp. None of the others knew the burdens carried by a dying species or of the weight of ruling a people, and to top it off suffering such a loss. It was tough enough for anyone to bare let alone Azar. But Trodai thought, if he could bring him a little piece of joy, of seeing and doing something he loved, maybe he would see the Azar he knew and draw him out. Perhaps the love he had would be returned in the same way he often saw Azar view Trael or Vossari.

He hoped so and time would tell.

As Darth Arcanos strode out in all his kingly glory, every bit the kingly nobility he was and dressed so fashionably, Trodai eyes widened ever so slightly and his eye stalks started to twitch slightly in excitement. He had expected something but not quite as stunning as what was before him as the heels, black and crimson made for a contrasting picture he couldn't quite shake. Indeed even his mouth dropped a little. He could never get over how beautiful Azar was no matter what he wore and how he always made him feel when looking at him. Especially when he dressed like he did, intentionally so he suspected. Which made him inwardly chuckle at the thought.

His heart continued to pound ever so slightly. He was relieved to find Azar was smiling, and so smiled back in return as he spoke "And I would have found you too my king," he said "For are we are bound by fate and the Force," he recalled the conversation they had once had in the city of Ur.

When he removed the mask, he allowed a wide smile. Briefly chuckling as Azar eyes widened in surprise just as he had hoped it would happen. Staying silent a moment as he allowed Azar to speak and touch his face. As he closed his eyes briefly, enjoying and savouring the moment. His touch. The touch of one he loved which he hadn't felt in what felt like years, at least his proper face.

He could hear the emotions in his tone, it told him all he needed. That the same fondness he remembered still remained. No matter how people tried to shake it for them both. As he exclaimed that Trodai was himself again and asked how, Trodai chuckled a little as he gave a curt nod. And took in Azar in a massive embrace, as if it had been eons since they had seen each other. He knew Azar at that moment wanted to be held, to feel his comfort. And so he would provide it as he regaled with his tale.

He could tell Azar was stressed, fatigued and worn out from the weight of his multiple responsibilities. And so he would not treat him as such on the trip. He would treat him as he wanted. As Azar Kressh. As his lover.

"It is quite a long tale Azar. But I shall try my best." he began being quiet and whispering so no-one else would hear them and making sure no-one thought to eavesdrop, even as he walked Azar to the hotel entrance, offering his arm to link into even as he held Azar embraced to his chest, allowing him to stay as long as he wanted. Walking or not it didn't matter "As you know I had searched for months, checking every text and tome, every book or holocron I could to try and find for a way to cure myself of my...affliction. I was actually close to giving up any hope of finding a way, but it appears the Dark Side heard me and offered a boon."

He recalled it "I found an ancient ritual. Hidden deep among the Ur archives, almost forgotten entirely. It described the process of restoring ones vitally by siphoning of others at a place of great power. A nexus. But a powerful one. I found such a nexus upon Byss which could prove useful in future. The ritual itself required a large sacrifice and the use of a Sorcerer. 10 supplicants to be siphoned by placing under specific sigils and a Sorcerer to aid the process. My Apprentice was able to help procure the sacrifices and aid the ritual to its success despite the challenges. She can sometimes be a handful but...she is resourceful and proven a useful ally."

When he was finished, Trodai looked upon Azar. Unsure if he had been listening or not, although he didn't mind if he wasn't. To see him like this and feel him as he did, to feel that comfort and love he had missed was enough. To show him that even though he hadn't been there in his darkest moment, or when someone tried assassinating him, he was here now. He would not leave his side again so long as he allowed it. He would not be weak or the fool. He would be his dark guardian and protector of both him and his interests.

He decided a change of subject "You seem to get even more beautiful every time I see you. You know that." He said, offering a smile as he embraced the man back and if allowed steal a quick kiss.

@Sreeya

 

[Darth Arcanos]

Just as he expected, Trodai had a very long explanation. However, at the mention of Ur, Azar actually ventured to listen to the entire speech. At the mention of the apprentice, he sighed, “Make sure you keep her in line. Don’t allow any nonsense,” He said, the bitterness unmistakable in his tone, “I know first hand what kind of damage blurring the lines in a Master and Apprentice dynamic can do..” He trailed off, Trodai knowing that Azar was referring to Karys. Azar wondered if he had a traditional dynamic with Karys if a lot of his angst could have been avoided. They would have gone their separate ways and Karys would have grown into a successful Sith Lord and beyond.

Azar killed that line of thought, keeping his arm looped with Trodai’s as they traveled to the hotel. He took a moment to take in the surroundings, the planet rich and ornate. He pondered about having a home here. With his Umbara lab and nook blown up, he was not too attached to the planet anymore.

When Trodai mentioned he grew more beautiful every time, Azar chuckled, “Perhaps it is because I grow more powerful every time you see me,” He stated flatly. After all, could any of his lovers actually love him if Azar had no power or titles to command? He doubted it. Trael was perhaps the only exception. That man would adore Azar even if he was a homeless degenerate on the streets.

“So what have you planned for me?” He asked Trodai, knowing the man was the type to always have a thorough itinerary organized before Azar ever arrived anywhere.

@Akheron

 

[Trodai Narat-iv-Adas]

As Trodai explained he took note of the subtle changes, how Azar listened at the mention of Ur, and at the mention of his apprentice. He could tell something was wrong but didn't push as he trailed off, nodding and taking the advice, and knowing to what he referred. It was clear there was still hurt in that particular area there so he didn't mention his apprentice further. He simply led Azar as he looked his arm, taking in the sights, sounds and smells of the area as they walked the hotel pathway up to the hotel entrance itself.

He also took a moment to look upon the splendour of the surroundings. Breathtakingly as they were and far different to Korriban or most places he and visited where everything was so crowded. He smiled at the sights and spoke briefly upon it "Most stunning architecture and scenery. I wished I had gotten to see it sooner with you."

As they continued and upon his Azar chuckling and replying, Trodai offered a chuckle with him before responding. In some ways he was right but in others not so much. It wasn't just his power that had drawn Trodai, although that wasn't to say there wasn't that allure as well at first. It was his personality and actions which had also been key to winning his heart and kept it. Although he didn't know if given everything, if Azar would ever believe that. At least not in his current state of mind. Trodai saw now the true damage that had been done with the death of his husband. He would need to be careful how he approached everything.

"Perhaps so in a way, although seeing you smile and that legendary cake are also reason enough." he chuckled a little back after his reply, remarking at the fact how so many had fallen to the legendary Azar cake. Hopefully that got a chuckle, he certainly found it quite funny how so many just fell to it. Including him initially before he saw so much more to the man.

Trodai considered what Darth Arcanos said next carefully. He knew that Azar knew him well enough that he would be organised. And so he laid out "Well for you Azar, I planned something special. A visit to a rare wildlife and plant reserve here on the planet. Close to where we are, I'm afraid though it may require a walk. They don't allow landspeeders or that inside the park, something about scaring the wildlife away. But I'm more than happy to lead the way and carry you." he winked, knowing that Azar knew he would too.

He continued "Apparently there is a rare plant that grows there once a decade. I hope we arrived at the right time for it and find one. The park so it said is also home to the elusive Tybalt's Hawk, prized for its striking plumage and unparalleled hunting prowess. and some kind of antelope creatures, called Mercutios, which are prized for their speed and agility. I thought you might enjoy the plants and wildlife given your affinity for creatures and fauna. But that is for tomorrow."

He said with a smile "For tonight I thought I might wine and dine you a bit if you want. And if your feeling up to it there is a grand ball going on at the hotel in a few hours. I hope this is to your liking." He hoped so remembering how Azar was a good dancer and seemed to enjoy it if he recalled. He thought it would be good and he hoped he got the chance for a dance and even arranged that he might sing for his king. A passion missed and now he was back to normal more or less, he wanted to show it to Azar.

As they went inside the hotel, Trodai looked upon the interior, approving and hoping Azar did too. Trodai set about checking them , getting it done quickly, knowing patience was not a strong suit of the Sith Lord. Trodai had to chuckle as the attendants struggled with so many bags and trying to fit them in the elevator, one attendant even almost tipping over they held so many before they were quickly supported by another two. They soon managed as Trodai escorted Azar to his room personally.

Opening the door to a exquisite royal bedroom for a king of his standing. As usual there were an additional three rooms for luggage and Trodai had his own room as he expected was the arrangement. Trodai smiled as he spoke "And here you are Azar. I hope you like the room, I spared no expense, only the best for you. I'll see you in a bit."

Soon after he returned dressed in a white and gold dining suit, ready to wine and dine his king. To spoil him and enjoy the company. To spend time with his king, with Azar. The person he loved.

"What you think?" he remarked after waiting and finally seeing Azar.

@Sreeya

 

[Darth Arcanos]

Trodai explained that it was his smile and rear that added to the attraction on top of Azar’s power. The comment only drew a thin lipped smile, revealing that the Pureblood was not remotely impressed with the reply. He wanted to be desired for his mind, his thoughts, his passions, his personality far more than for his physical traits. Azar loved being pretty, but he only wanted superficial attention from those that never mattered to him. Trodai mattered, and it was lackluster to find the man found Azar appealing for his physical attributes and titles.

“Mm that all sounds intriguing,” Azar said flatly, though he couldn’t deny that the flower bloom sounded particularly exciting. He only hoped Trodai wouldn’t try to pluck said flower and ruin it.

The grand foyer and rooms were pleasing and Azar’s face revealed as much, “You spoil me, Trodai,” He said with a smile before parting ways with the man. He took a moment to shower and change, emerging a while later in an extravagant attire.

“I’m ready,” Azar said as he descended down the staircase in all his glory.

@Akheron

 

[Trodai Narat-iv-Adas]

As Trodai explained some of his reasoning, he noticed the thin lipped smile, and having known Azar a while now he knew that usually meant he wasn't impressed. He cursed himself for such a silly answer, especially when it was only partially true. His attempt at humour clearly wasn't great. And so he would set to rectify it, he truly did love Azar for far more than just his looks and power. His mind, his passions, his thoughts and personality. He loved it all. Everything about him. And so he got serious for a moment.

He adding more to his own initial comments before explaining the itinerary and answering the comments to follow from Azar. Elaborating a bit more as to what he really thought.

"But I think above all what appeals to me most is that extraordinary mind of yours and how it works. Your sheer will. How passionate you are, and all those little eccentricities of yours. The way you laugh one moment and can be cold as ice another. Your quirks of personality. All these things matter to me far more than anything physically, or any title you bare, not that it is not also appealing. I love you more for your uniqueness and being so unapologetic. I would not enjoy your company had it been different or another way. You matter to me in more ways than I can express and in so many different ways." he said with a smile as he allowed their eyes to meet. All was true and Azar would be able to tell. He wasn't lying about any of it or saying it just to seem better or simply for the sake of it, to appease him. It was genuine, honest and his truth.

As he explained the itinerary, Trodai noted how Azar was for most part flat other than when he mentioned the flower. He remembered how in the gardens of Umbara, Azar had treated each plant gently. Like a small child almost, nurturing. And so he would try not pluck the flower he spoke of or damage it if they found it. Especially considering that it seemed to make it worth the trip to some extent and it was something that interested Azar. And yet he couldn't shake how the Azar before him was far from the one he had known before Murzana and the death of Karys.

This version seemed colder. Distant. But he would weather through as best he was able.

He offered a smile at the reply as he responded in kind "I hope so. Although if it is not to your liking, I can always arrange something else."

Trodai smiled as Azar smiled at him when he was the admiring the foyer and the rooms "I would always spoil you Azar." he said "Your worth every expense. Only the best for the one I love, for you." As he waited, Trodai wondered what sight might come down those stairs. And hoped he hadn't overdone everything. As Azar arrived down the stairs in all his glory, Trodai heart almost jumped out his chest.

He looked absolutely sensational. Trodai could barely contain his smile and expression of joy at seeing Azar like he was. Like a godly beauty that he only imagined from some fairy tales or fiction. At first he had trouble with his words such was the sight that stunned him "You look...you look fantastic." he said, suppressing a gulp for Azar was intoxicating as he was. Was it him or was it getting hotter.

As Azar descended the stairs, Trodai was there to meet him, bowing curtly before offering a hand as if it really was a fairytale. And he was the Prince waiting for his Queen to come down the stairs. And in his arms he held a ornate wooden box, hand carved. If Azar looked carefully he would notice how the carving had a distinctive, familiar feel. He would see it has been carved by Trodai personally, another passion of his. To carve wooden carvings and such boxes, not that many people knew. Not even Azar. In the front were carved the words "To Azar Kreshh. My special butterfly." The meaning of which would be obvious to a man of such intellect as would be the intent.

It was a term of endearment.

For it was known among some cultures of how a butterfly symbolised transformation and strength, vitality, and life. And Trodai viewed him as all those things and more. Within as was his custom was a intricate gift of a dragon necklace and a golden bangle to complete the look Azar had chosen, to accompany it, although he didn't realise at the time how much they might match. It was something he picked up in the private collection of the bankers of Aargu while robbing them aboard a moving train that he thought might be more appreciated in Azar hands. Both he hadn't gotten around to giving him due to everything that had happened.

"Do you like them?" he said, curiously.

If permitted he would help put them on. "Shall we?" he said after the task was done still smiling, as he proffered the hand, ready to lead Azar to the exquisite private dining area where he had arranged they could be alone with just the two of them undisturbed. There they could discuss anything they wished without the concern of hiding it among the scenic view and among candlelight and violins. All who knew better than to ask questions and paid handsomely to mind they're business.

As the proper gentlemen and noble he was, Trodai moved towards Azar chair first and moved it out so he could sit before moving it in again softly as to not bump his lover before taking his own seat.

They were soon treated to the local cuisine. A fusion of flavors and ingredients of traditional Veronese descent, with a juxtaposition of sweet and savory elements, that both delighted the senses and tantalized the palate. He knew Azar had a sweet tooth and a passion for food so he thought this would be right up his alley. The starter was a interesting selection.

Roasted sweet potato rounds with chopped feta cheese, lemon juice, thyme, figs, pomegranate, rocket leaves and a aged balsamic glaze. It was divine. The chefs obviously knew what they were doing here. After finishing a bite, Trodai enquired, curious as to what Azar thought of the setting, him here with him alone like this and the meal so far. They had much to discuss and say but for now Trodai enjoyed the moment and the one he loved.

"How is it? Everything is to your liking I hope." he smiled. He was prepared to help Azar if he was having trouble with the utensils, he knew how it was for him especially with three digits himself. A gentlemen never let's those they love suffer afterall.

@Sreeya

 

[Darth Arcanos]

Azar smiled at Trodai’s compliment as he descended the stairs. The Pureblood moved gracefully, practically floating down the staircase before he linked his arm through Trodai’s, “You look quite handsome yourself,” Azar responded, admiring the white and gold that contrasted nicely against Trodai’s crimson skin.

The Pureblood glanced down at the box, always excited about gifts. He opened the box and gasped, pleased by the dragon themed jewelry. The sight drew out a smile and Azar promptly held up the necklace for Trodai to put on him. Once that was done, he placed the bangle on his wrist, “It’s perfect,” He said, gesturing to himself, “How do I look?” He asked as he smiled up at the Massassi.

Azar linked their arms again for the walk towards the dining area, “I have acquired some dragon eggs of my own,” He told Trodai, the excitement unmistakable in his voice, “Trael and I,” He added, the fondness clear in his voice. The journey was brutal and a pain, but it was worth it for the three eggs they obtained, “It won’t be long before you see me perched on the back of a dragon leading conquests,” He said with a giggle.

Azar sat down after Trodai pulled out his chair for him, glancing across at him. He was pleased to find Trodai returned to his normal form instead of the husk he became for a while, “You haven’t taken any other lovers in the entire time we’ve been apart,” Azar observed, “Why is that? As the regent of Ur, you have an unlimited choice of women and men,” He said as he nibbled at the food. His expression alone suggested Azar loved the cuisine thus far.

@Akheron

 

[Trodai Narat-iv-Adas]

Trodai smiled back in return, giving a brief bow before he linked arms. Happy that Azar was happy, he recalled they hadn't actually gone on a proper date so in a way he considered this it. He didn't mind either way, especially with current company and now he felt about them. His heart was pounding with excitement at not just seeing him as stunning and was but also due to the intense feelings he felt around him. And always did. They were only heightened by the extended stay away.

"Thank you. I thought now I'm Regent I may as well start looking the part. Well that and I wanted to look just right for you, to show you how much you were missed. It was...a dark time without you as you can imagine so seeing you again...well...I wanted to look my best." he said again it was genuine, he had truly missed the man and moments like this. All his expressions and different reactions, just being around him was enough. He smiled glad that Aza R loved the gifts as well as the carved his he had made himself. Intricate and deeply personal. "Like a dream, if it is a dream I hope never to wake up" he said chuckling.

As they walked Trodai spoke of the carving, hoping Azar noticed who had made it "Did you notice anything...different about the box? I have taken up a new hobby of late, carving. That box was my best work so far, I hope to get the chance to do more. Perhaps if you permit I might do one of your likeness." he smiled, the offer sincere. And then he heard about the dragon eggs. His eyes widened slightly. Both a little shocked and surprised. It got a little chuckle. So Azar was to become a fabled dragon rider afterall.

Just like he always thought he was capable of. The leviathan had been the first sign, he was starting to seriously wonder if there was actually truth to any of the prophecies the seers spoke of. And so far he found everything this far had become true of what he read. It was something to think upon. He wondered if he told Azar would be even believe him about any of it. Although he did know he would take it seriously he did say, afterall he seemed very interested when they last discussed the subject in Ur. He wondered though if they were true where did he fit in. Where did any of them.

"Oh? Very nice." he said smiling, noting the excitement and was equally fascinated by the revelation. He wished now he hadn't been so foolish, if not he would perhaps still have and his own dragon. But it was too late now. He was truly happy for Azar and the thought of him riding up on a dragon like the fabled Korriban dragon riders of old, like Adas himself brought feelings of joy. And then he heard his name. Trael. So it seemed Azar was still with the hairy chinned chimp. It was a wonder he managed to get any eggs, or not have someone con him out of them given his track record. But that was probably because no-one would dare with Azar there.

He didn't quite know how he put up with him. But he guessed this was what he signed up for, he would have to keep dealing with the insufferable human. He still wished he could rip the beard off though, although he doubted Azar would approve. But internally he chuckled at the thought of it and Trael with that wide open mouth gawking at his lost beard sobbing and lamenting its loss. Although in a way he did respect the fact he had in fact helped Azar get the eggs, so he would give him credit where due. He knew eventually they would need to figure out a way to coexist, and remove this animosity for Azar sake. It would be for the best.

But for now he would simply deal with it. And the bearded fool.

He remained quiet about all that, instead being courteous about it "Oh, still with him are you. Well so long as you are happy is all that matters to me" he said, not quite believing he actually said that about Trael. But he supposed miracles did happen. As Azar said more about riding on a dragon, he could picture it as if he were there. Azar with his armour and helmet, bearing down on enemies and his rivals from above to bring death and destruction in his wake. It excited him just thinking about it.

He spoke up "Then I was right about you. You really will be a great dragon rider like Adas himself, I can already see it. It makes me...invigorated just thinking about you up there." he said happy that Azar was happy. And in that moment he said the was catching glimpses of the man he had grown to love. Not the one that was so distant, so cold. His plan appeared to be working. As the two stared across from each other, Trodai couldn't help but steal a occasional glance across, hoping Azar would spot him but attempting to pretend he didn't know what he was doing. When he knew full well what he's as doing, and quietly, inwardly chuckled at the prospect of getting caught. He wanted too.

Trodai was caught a little off guard with the question about lovers and catching the fact he hadn't actually taken any since his restoration. Although he was certainly spoilt for choice, with many already attempting to try to sway him, even Nana Kressh. She had been calling him constantly since his return to normal condition and restoration of his Regent position, concerning potential marriage. Luckily so far he had been able to ward her off.

He fell quiet for a moment, considering how best to tell Azar the reasons why. That he hadn't chosen anyone because he felt nothing for them and they did not appeal to him. Either mentally or in a physical level. He only had eyes and the heart for one. Only one. And in a way he always had, ever since that first dance, to the hot springs after and beyond. His mind and heart had only ever been for Azar. It always would be.

"I know." He said "And while that is true, and many of the allied houses have attractive men and women....and I have been propositioned by a few since my restoration. But they hold.very little interest to me. None compare to the one I want. Only you have ever captivated me so and still do. Your intellect, your quirks, everything about you. I have only ever had eyes and a heart for you." He continued , looking Azar in the eyes and smiling "Ever since we first danced and locked eyes, and the hot springs. Even before you gained the power you have and the grand titles and still even now, at this moment. No-one else has ever entranced me and drawn me as you have. And likely never will." he considered his next words very carefully, full knowing the implications "As I believe I once told you. I would search for you through 1,000 worlds and 10,000 lifetimes until I found you again. Your the only one for me, now and in the future. You always will be." He smiled hoping what he said met approval. For it was all true.

He never had eyes for anyone as much as Azar. Not since the loss of his previous love had he ever felt such feelings and emotions like he did when around and with Azar. Trodai knew as sure as he breathed, Azar was the one for him and would always be. The only one who ever truly believed in him. And saw him for what he could become. No matter the pain or suffering he might have to endure and indeed in some cases had endured. It was all worth it. For him. For his king. His Sith'ari. His superior. His lover. For Darth Arcanos. For Azar Kreshh.

On that the main course arrived. A sweet and savoury lamb loin with permesan risotto rice. The lamb was surrounded and packed with banana shallots, garlic, a handful micro parsley, local wild mushrooms, rosemary, shallots and spinach. The sauce was constructed of black olives, black pepper, salt, olive oil and truffles. It too was delicious and Trodai was happy to admit it. Just as he was happy with present company. Alone at last with no interruptions.

@Sreeya